Engaging an Audience through Directing Music Videos

Kathleen Sheehan

In this profile series, Revry is highlighting authentic contributors to the LGBTQ media and entertainment community. We ask questions to find out who they are and where they are going in the future. The questions remain the same but the answers tell their unique story. It’s time to explore and celebrate true representation beyond the limits of Hollywood. 

Previously an Assistant Director for clients such as A$AP Rocky, Playboi Carti, L’Oreal, Louis Vuitton, Charlotte Russe, Alan Walker, and Noah Cyrus, director Kathleen Sheehan eventually found her true joy in creating music videos. She currently has directed several music videos for NYC artists that have been selected for festivals such as QueerX, ARTS x SDGS, Imagine This Women’s, Philadelphia International, Golden Door International, Detroit Shetown, LIFFT India World Cinefest, and others. Kathleen prides herself in being able to craft cinematic music videos as an independent director with few resources, while collaborating with artists that push the boundaries in the entertainment industry, and are at the forefront of changing pop culture.

What are you best known for?

In my work as a music video director, I think I am best known for my intimate framing and blocking. I like to fill the frame with the emotions of the talent and really make the audience feel as close to the warmth, passion and intensity the singer is trying to portray in their music. 

What is the first thing you directed?

The first thing that I directed was a music video titled CYCLES by artist Amsi (@thisisamsi). It was a music video that depicted the pain and struggle of being in the cycle of an abusive relationship and then finally breaking free from it. I used the elements of water, wind and fire to illustrate her emotions. 

What are you working on that no one knows about yet?

I am currently in post on a music video for the artist Amsi (@thisisamsi) for her song titled “JEETE RAHO.” It’s a music video that I think really showcases the artist's life involving family, friends and highlighting both of her cultures - American and Indian. We shot some dance scenes on an NYC rooftop with beautiful traditional Indian dance, and built a hookah lounge in the singer’s living room. But my favorite scene that I can’t wait for people to see is the scooter scene. My Cinematographer, Sam Cowan (@samaricowan), was wearing the camera on a movi rig, and strapped himself with ratchet straps and a harness to the back of a truck. With him strapped to the back and driving along an empty Brooklyn street, we were able to film the singer and extras scootering along in so many fun camera angles. It took a lot of planning, and coordination to make it safe, but I’m very happy with how it turned out! Keep a look out for the new music video titled “JEETE RAHO” by Amsi - coming soon!